Zingaro Nature Reserve
Riserva naturale orientata dello Zingaro
Sicily's first nature reserve. A car-free coastal path of about 7 km links several turquoise pebble coves, ideal for swimming and snorkelling.
The Zingaro Nature Reserve was established in 1981 as the first nature reserve in Sicily. It lies on a pristine stretch of coastline of about 7 km between San Vito Lo Capo and Scopello, and motor vehicles are banned throughout the area. The hillsides are covered with dwarf palms, wildflowers and shrubs. The main path follows the undulating coast and connects six or seven pebble coves, including Cala della Disa and Cala Tonnarella dell'Uzzo, with crystal-clear water that is perfect for swimming and snorkelling. Along the way you'll find a small folk and natural history museum and ancient caves. There are entrances at both the north and south ends, admission is about €5, and opening hours vary by season. A one-way walk takes about 2 to 3 hours, and most people enter from the south, swim in the middle coves and then turn back. It is about 70 km from Palermo, roughly 1 hour 15 minutes by car. There are no shops inside, and there is almost no shade, so bring your own water and food and wear non-slip shoes.
Opening hours
About 07:00–19:30 (shorter in winter)
Nearby sights
- Scopello
- Segesta
- Monreale Cathedral
- Mondello Beach
- Capuchin Catacombs
- La Zisa
- Palazzo dei Normanni & Cappella Palatina
- Mercato del Capo